With Villa’s other specialist left-back Enda Stevens still nursing a hamstring strain, versatile right-back Eric Lichaj is on standby to return to the No.3 role. Paul Lambert has decisions to make in other areas of the park. Brad Guzan is expected to return in goal, despite Shay Given playing well in the Capital One Cup win against his former club.

Fabian Delph’s impressive performance at City will give the manager a dilemma in the centre of the park. With Stephen Ireland sidelined by a broken wrist, Delph could get the nod over Barry Bannan to partner Karim El Ahmadi.

Up front, Villa have a range of options as Lambert contemplates whether he can accommodate Tuesday’s two-goal hero Gabby Agbonlahor, Christian Benteke and Darren Bent in the same XI.

Brett Holman will be pushing for a return to action after being rested in midweek, while Charles N’Zogbia is keen to keep his place after finding the net at the Etihad Stadium. Richard Dunne (groin) is still out, along with long-term casualty Gary Gardner (knee).